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spider web cookies

Spider Web Cookies

Sophie
Create delicious spider web cookies with this easy recipe! Buttery, crisp, and beautifully decorated, they're perfect for any occasion. Try them today!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 Cookies
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cookies:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour for the perfect texture
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened (adds richness)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar for balanced sweetness
  • 1 large egg helps bind the dough
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract enhances flavor
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder for a slight lift
  • ¼ teaspoon salt balances sweetness

For the Spider Web Decoration:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar for smooth icing
  • 2 –3 tablespoons milk or water adjust for consistency
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla or almond extract adds subtle flavor
  • Black cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate for the web design
  • Piping bag or toothpick for precise decorating

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Food coloring to customize your icing
  • Sprinkles or edible glitter for extra flair

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy. This step helps achieve a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Crack in the egg, then add the vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated.
  • In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, stirring to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  • Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the cookies delicate.
  • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—this makes it easier to roll out and prevents excessive spreading.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get a baking sheet ready by covering it with parchment paper or a non-stick mat.
  • Lightly flour a clean surface, then roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thick for even baking.
  • Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles, then gently transfer them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each.
  • Slide the tray into the oven and bake for around 8–10 minutes, just until the edges are firm but not browned.
  • Let the cookies rest on the tray for a minute or two before carefully placing them on a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Decorate with a Spider Web Design

  • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the icing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Add extra milk, a teaspoon at a time, if needed.
  • Using a spoon or an offset spatula, spread a thin layer of icing over each cookie.
  • For the web effect, take melted dark chocolate or black cocoa icing and pipe three or four circles over the icing.
  • While the icing is still wet, drag a toothpick from the center outward at equal intervals to create a delicate web pattern.
  • Let the cookies sit undisturbed until the icing has completely dried, ensuring a polished finish.

Video

Notes

Recipe Details
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 24 cookies
  • Calories: 180 kcal per cookie
 
Keyword cobweb cookies, spider web cookies, spiderweb cookies